Sage McBride, 7, of West Des Moines checks out the Valley High Chinese Lion dance team during the 2012 Illumifest. / Register file photo

Kids frolic in fun at Illumifest in W.D.M.

The sixth annual Illumifest, A Fall Festival of Light, offers a slate of outdoor family activities to enjoy before the cool weather closes in. Carnival rides and games start at 2 p.m.; other afternoon activities include paddle boat rides on the campus pond, lantern making and face painting. A limited number of hot-air balloon rides will be offered at 5 p.m., weather permitting. The Disney movie “Brave” will be screened at 7:30 p.m., with fireworks to follow at 9 p.m.

More events

this week

Today

Living Cultures: Kenya — Learn about and celebrate the culture of Kenya at this family-friendly event, presented by CultureAll. Enjoy a traditional Kenyan meal, music, games and a presentation. $15 per person. 6 p.m. Windsor Heights Community and Events Center, Colby Park, 6900 School St., Windsor Heights. Order tickets at www.cultureall.org.

Friday

Friday Story Time — Head to the Grimes Public Library for songs, stories and a craft with friends. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers with a caregiver are welcome. Free. 10 a.m. 200 N. James St., Grimes.

Laffin’ with the Fam’ Clean Comedy — Take the whole family to a night of laughter, with a live band, four national comics, host Double D and headliner Kool Bubba Ice. $20 ages 12 and over, $10 ages 6-12. 7:30 p.m. Des Moines Marriott, 700 Grand Ave. Purchase tickets at 515-577-9301.

Saturday

Panera Princess Party — Children & Families of Iowa invites princesses and their parents for a fun morning full of activities, including breakfast, live princesses, games and crafts. Packages are available. See them at www.cfiowa.org. 8-10 a.m. Panera at Jordan Creek Town Center, 101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines.

Natural Playscape Celebration— Help Des Moines Parks and Recreation celebrate the Natural Playscape at Sargent Park, where you can make a track and enjoy a monarch maze and a tree photo station. Refreshments will be provided. Free. 10 a.m. 3530 E. Douglas Ave.

Saturday and Sunday

Iowa Outdoor Expo — What better way to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day than by bringing the family for a fun, free weekend discovering new ways to enjoy Iowa’s outdoors. Participate in over 50 free hands-on activities. Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Des Moines Izaak Walton League, 4343 George Flagg Parkway.